The Ernakulam–Bengaluru Vande Bharat Express saw massive demand, with tickets selling out within hours. It operates daily with fast travel times
The newly launched Vande Bharat Express connecting Ernakulam and Bengaluru has witnessed an exceptional response, with tickets selling out within hours of opening. This semi-high-speed train, flagged off virtually by Prime Minister Narendra Modi from Varanasi, marks Kerala’s third Vande Bharat service and is operated by the Southern Railway zone.
Train number 26652, running from Ernakulam to KSR Bengaluru, saw its Executive Chair Car waitlisted for the next ten days, according to the IRCTC booking portal. AC Chair Car seats have also been fully booked for November 16, while fewer than 50 seats remained for November 11, the first day of commercial operations.
The train comprises eight coaches and offers two seating classes: AC Chair Car priced at ₹1,615 and Executive Chair Car at ₹2,980. The service aims to provide a faster and more comfortable travel experience between the two cities.
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As per the schedule, train number 26651 departs KSR Bengaluru at 5:10 AM and arrives in Ernakulam at 1:50 PM. The return service, train number 26652, leaves Ernakulam at 2:20 PM and reaches Bengaluru by 11:00 PM.
The route includes seven intermediate stops: Krishnarajapuram, Salem, Erode, Tiruppur, Coimbatore, Palakkad, and Thrissur. The train travels via the Coimbatore–Palakkad corridor, offering connectivity across key commercial and transit hubs.
With its rapid sell-out and strategic route, the Ernakulam–Bengaluru Vande Bharat Express is poised to transform intercity travel in southern India, combining speed, efficiency, and modern amenities. The overwhelming demand reflects strong public interest and the growing popularity of Vande Bharat services across the region.